Forensic Science and the Administration of Justice

Résumé du livre

Forensic Science and the Administration of Justice: Critical Issues and Directions, now in its second edition, examines the application of scientific methods and expertise within the legal context, highlighting the utility of these practices in both investigative and adjudicative processes. It explores the realities and challenges of forensic science as opposed to the often-misrepresented myths seen in popular media, offering readers salient insights into the efficacy, efficiency, and impact of forensic analysis on case outcomes.

Featuring chapters authored by contributors from various backgrounds--academia, laboratory direction, legal profession, and research--the book addresses a variety of topics, including the impact of DNA evidence on police investigations, the utility of forensic analysis for non-violent crimes, sustainability of forensic laboratories, and advances in technology such as forensic genetic genealogy. Additional chapters address backlog issues, cognitive biases, ethical concerns in forensic science, and more.

Forensic Science and the Administration of Justice is ideal for courses in forensic science, criminology, criminal justice, and related fields. It effectively bridges theory and real-world application, providing readers with an up-to-date and well-rounded perspective on the integral role of forensic sciences within the judicial process.

Chapters and Contributors include:

Preface

Section I - The Demand for Forensic Services

Chapter 1: A Historical Review of the Demand for Forensic Services - Matthew J. Hickman and Kevin J. Strom
Chapter 2: Is There Evidence of a "CSI Effect"? - Rachel Dioso-Villa
Chapter 3: What We Know (and Don't Know) about Forensic Evidence Backlogs - Hannah Feeney, Kevin J. Strom & Matthew J. Hickman

Section II - The Quality of Forensic Services

Chapter 4: Adopting a Research Culture in the Forensic Sciences - Barry A. J. Fisher
Chapter 5: Cognitive Bias in Forensic Casework - Carla L. MacLean
Chapter 6: A Survey of Ethical Issues in the Forensic Science - Peter Stout and Lynn Garcia

Section III - The Utility of Forensic Services

Chapter 7: The Impact of Forensic Evidence on Criminal Justice Outcomes - Sally F. Kelty, Roberta Julian, and Robert Hayes
Chapter 8: Advances in Forensic Genetic Techniques - Ashley Rodriguez and Heather McKiernan
Chapter 9: The Role of Medicolegal Death Investigation in the Administration of Justice - Kelly Keyes

Section IV - Postconviction Issues

Chapter 10: The Problems and Challenges of Evidence Retention - John M. Collins, Jr.
Chapter 11: The Power and Limits of Forensic DNA Analysis - Jason Chute and Misty Marra

Section V - The Future Role of Forensic Science in the Administration of Justice

Chapter 12: Developing New Business Models for Forensic Laboratories - Max M. Houck and Paul J. Speaker
Chapter 13: The Future of Forensic Science Through Technological Advancements - Jeri D. Ropero-Miller and Nicole S. Jones

Index
About the Authors